Bhopal, September 20, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) General Secretary Dattatreya Hosabale on Sunday described casteism and untouchability as a “blot” on Hindu society and called for collective efforts to strengthen social harmony and national unity.
Addressing a gathering of around 30,000 swayamsevaks at Lal Parade Ground in Bhopal as part of the RSS centenary-year programmes, Hosabale said service to society and patriotism should not be confined to RSS workers. Every citizen, he said, must be prepared to contribute to society and the nation, particularly during times of crisis.
Hosabale said caste-based discrimination weakens society and cannot be eliminated only through laws, sermons or the intervention of a divine figure. He emphasised that meaningful change must begin at home and through individual conduct.
He urged people to resolve neither to practise caste discrimination nor to tolerate untouchability. The challenges facing society, he said, are common to everyone and should not be viewed through the divisions of caste, sect, language or region.
Using the analogy of four fingers becoming stronger when clenched into a fist, Hosabale said an organised and awakened society was necessary for India’s progress. He called on leaders and members of different communities and groups to recognise their shared responsibilities.
On patriotism, Hosabale said it should not be limited to occasions such as Republic Day but should be reflected in citizens’ daily lives. He urged people to consider what they could contribute to their villages, neighbourhoods and communities and appealed to them to devote at least an hour each day to selfless social service.
He said RSS shakhas work towards character-building and social organisation while seeking to transcend caste and linguistic barriers.
Hosabale also stressed that environmental protection required action beyond resolutions and speeches. He called for responsible practices in homes, schools, workplaces, markets and neighbourhoods, including tree plantation, conserving energy and keeping rivers clean.
Referring to the recent Assam floods, he said Seva Bharati swayamsevaks had undertaken relief work, while youth, college students and people from different sections of society had also volunteered. Service during crises, he said, was a responsibility shared by all citizens. Similarly, he said residents should take ownership of the development of their villages and localities rather than leaving it entirely to governments and administrations.
Hosabale called for cultural values from the Ramayana, Mahabharata, the teachings of saints and guidance of gurus to be passed on to younger generations. Referring to the Sangh’s concept of “Panch Parivartan”, he highlighted social harmony, family and values, environmental conservation, self-awareness and civic duties.
Recalling India’s nearly 5,000-year civilisational journey, Hosabale said the country had faced numerous crises but repeatedly overcome them. What mattered, he said, was society’s ability to confront challenges collectively.
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